NHL clears Morgan Rielly of alleged slur use

Last night, the Leafs lost a hockey game to the best NHL team we’ve seen in generations. But the discourse online very quickly turned into something else: what maybe sounded like a very hateful and homophobic word being directed towards the referee while looking for a penalty call late in the second period.

Morgan Rielly became public suspect #1, because he was the one turning his head towards the referee. It could’ve been Yanni Gourde, a player between the benches, or even a fan, but it definitely could’ve been Rielly.

There was definitely something picked up by the microphones, and a pretty clear “fuck”. The next word? Not so clear, but well, it sounded like it could’ve been something pretty awful.

We’re not going to link the video, because even though you personally might not be hurt or offended by what it sounded like, and even though the official league ruling has come out that Rielly wasn’t yelling that word at the ref, homophobia in sports is still a major issue. We’d like to think every Leaf (and every player in the NHL) is better than that, but even if this specific instance wasn’t the worst-case scenario, it doesn’t mean it’s not happening at all.

A quick Google or Twitter search should pull the video up. Twitter user @TheFlintor has a good breakdown of the whole situation on his timeline, with a fairly plausible alternative explanation.

If you’re able to, here’s a cause we’re pushing some info towards.

Rielly is rightfully exonerated, but homophobia is clearly still a pressing issue within sports. the conversation shouldn’t end here. @adam_laskaris had the amazing idea last night to donate $44.44 to LGBTQI charity, @RainbowRailroad.

This incident should never have been made public until investigated by the NHL. Morgan Reilly conducted himself very well when he heard the unfounded allegations which were made. He went straight back to the rink stadium and shortly afterwards it was confirmed that he was innocent. The maturity shown by Reilly was excellent and I would make him team captain.